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Planning, Design, and Construction

The Office of Planning, Design, and Construction (OPDC) is responsible for all aspects of the revitalization and construction of Smithsonian’s 21 museums, nine research centers, and the National Zoological Park. OPDC oversees and executes a wide variety of services every year across eight states, Washington, D.C., and Panama.

Our Mission

To provide effective and efficient integrated services to design, construct, revitalize and preserve high quality and culturally significant facilities in support of the Smithsonian's mission.

Our Vision

To be recognized as a world leader in the design, construction, and revitalization of internationally renowned cultural and research facilities.

Derek Ross, RA, LEED AP
Director

Jo-Ann Romano
Administrative & Technical Services

Mike Carrancho, PE, LEED Green Associate
Deputy Director Office of Planning, Design, & Construction
Chief of Engineering & Design

Derek Ross, RA, LEED AP
Director of Construction Management Division

Charles Obi, RA, LEED AP
Acting Deputy Director of Planning and Program Management 

Claire Siedschlag, LEED AP
Associate Director of Facility Investment and Cost Engineering

John Talkington                                                                       
Associate Director of Facility Investment 

Luis Guardia                                                                       
Associate Director of STRI Facilities 

Engineering & Design
OPDC’s engineering and design team develops the scope of work, selects the appropriate architect engineer, verifies their level of effort, and drafts the contract. They also ensure the requirements and stakeholder expectations align with Smithsonian’s goals to ensure success.

Construction
The construction management team uses their architectural, construction, and engineering experience to execute the Capital Program and ensure projects comply with contract documents, legal codes, statutory requirements, engineering and technical standards, and fiscal obligations. They provide oversight for all Smithsonian construction projects.

Program Management
OPDC provides construction and revitalization planning and oversight with a focus on managing facilities scope, schedule, and budget. Program managers lead cross-functional teams of Smithsonian Facilities professionals and technical experts and ensure Smithsonian’s facilities receive appropriate planning, design, and construction services.

Master Planning
The master planners conduct planning and feasibility studies to address renovation and construction needs, oversees environmental studies, and helps obtain necessary approvals from the National Capital Planning Commission, the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts, and the D.C. Department of Transportation.

Architectural History & Historic Preservation (AHHP)
By implementing policy and managing programs, AHHP ensures the stewardship of more than 40 buildings and the Castle’s collection of furnishings and art. The team maintains the Smithsonian’s architectural records and uses them in the preservation of the Institution’s historic buildings.

Facility Investment & Cost Engineering (FICE)
FICE develops and managements project data and costs to allow for improved Capital and maintenance planning and quality assurance. The team coordinates the project requirement formulation, project initiation and scope development, and prioritization processes while also providing cost estimates and project management throughout the project life cycle.

STRI Facilities
The Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (STRI) Facilities is responsible for supporting all operations, maintenance, design, construction, and security needs and requirements throughout the Smithsonian facilities in Panama.

Learn More »

Q: I am a service provider and I am interested in learning more about construction, planning, and design opportunities at the Smithsonian?
A: To review the latest contracting opportunities at the Smithsonian, please visit the System for Award Management (SAM).

Q: I am an SI Contractor and need to conduct research using the facilities archives – how do I get more information?
A: Please reach out to your Smithsonian Contracting Officer’s Technical Representative (COTR). They will coordinate the request with the appropriate staff within OPDC.

Q. Are there any programs at the Smithsonian that support small or historically underutilized businesses?
A. Yes, please review the SI Supplier Diversity program to learn more about the Institution's policy and programs. 

Q: How do I request official facilities records and information?
A: Formal record requests are managed by the Smithsonian Office of the General Counsel. Additional information can be found on their Records Requests page

Street Address:
Smithsonian Facilities
Office of Planning, Design and Construction
600 Maryland Ave, SW
Suite 5001
Washington, DC 20024

Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 37012
Washington, DC 20013-7012
Phone 202.633.6230
Fax 202.633.6234

General Contact Form


Directions to our Office:
Capital Gallery Building (WEST) 
600 Maryland Avenue, SW, 5th Floor Suite 5001 
Washington, DC 20024

Main Office: 202.633.6230 

Taking Metro:  https://wmata.com/

Take metro to L’Enfant Plaza and exit via the “Maryland and 7th” Street Exit. Take the escalator to the street level and enter the first building entrance on the right, (do not cross the street). Enter the double doors on the right, and take the elevator to the 5th floor.

Driving: There is a parking garage under our building. Entrance is at C and 6th St SW.

Take the elevator to the ground floor, then walk to the west end of the building. Make a left through the double doors on the left. Take the elevator to the 5th floor.
the 5th Floor.

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